Work underway to transform steelworks site

A South Yorkshire regeneration project is set to create new commercial space and support business growth following a £6 million investment in a former steelworks site.

Rotherham Council and Magna have appointed HBC Construction to deliver the Templeborough Business Zone, a development adjacent to the Magna Science Adventure Centre that will transform part of the historic industrial site into a modern business hub.

Construction began in early June and will deliver eight flexible business units totalling almost 10,000sq ft, including six commercial workspaces and two food-and-beverage units.

Named Steelos Business Park in recognition of former steelmaker Steel, Peech and Tozer, the scheme will also feature landscaped public spaces, outdoor seating, improved pedestrian access and additional parking to create an attractive environment for businesses and visitors.

Backed by Government funding through the Town Deal initiative, the development is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises while benefiting from enhanced connectivity via the new Magna tram-train station, which opened in April and links Templeborough with Sheffield and Rotherham.

Councillor Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, said: “Templeborough is a key part of Rotherham’s industrial story, and is already home to numerous small business sites. 

“Today it lies at the heart of the Don Valley Corridor, our new Mayoral Development Zone, as a shared local priority for future growth. 

“So, it’s great to be on site with Magna as work commences on this next phase of business space. 

“It’s a great opportunity to strengthen our local economy, now of course with direct links to the tram-train network and, in the future, Gateway Station.

“Working with Magna and HBC Construction, we’re delivering on our commitment to making sure our places are thriving.”

Richard Hammill, chief executive of Magna, added: “It’s fantastic to see work now underway on this exciting development. 

“This investment will help transform the area, creating new opportunities for businesses while enhancing the experience for everyone who visits Magna.

“We’re especially pleased that the name ‘Steelos’ has been retained. 

“It reflects the proud industrial heritage of Templeborough and keeps alive an important part of the history of Magna, the former steelworks site, and the wider community.

“As the project progresses, we look forward to seeing this become a thriving business area that celebrates our past while supporting future growth.”

HBC Construction, which employs more than 125 people across Yorkshire, the East Midlands and Teesside, is delivering the project through the YORbuild3 Medium Works framework.

Lee Powell, managing director of HBC, added: “We’re proud to be delivering this key business project in Templeborough, an iconic industrial area in the region and one with incredible potential.

“The project allows us to build on our relationship with Rotherham Council, while we continue work on the Rotherham Markets redevelopment, and deliver a high-quality and collaborative public/private scheme alongside Magna.”

The partners are targeting completion in the second quarter of 2027.

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